<A letter in careful but unexceptional script, tied with good twine. When opened, a pressed leaf from a Japanese maple is found, orange and red with autumn hues>

To the most honorable Lady Kitsu Sayomi of House Tatsukawa,

Please excuse my forwardness in writing to you directly. I am afraid I know almost no one in Kyuden Ikoma, but it is my understanding that among the people there, the Lady Kitsu Sayomi is a person worth knowing. I am called Yasuki Ryoichi, and will be attending court this winter as part of the Crab delegation.

I imagine you must know little of me or my house, and thus I have enclosed a small token of my homeland. If it pleases you, perhaps there will be opportunities to get better acquainted in the upcoming season.

Sincere regards,
Yasuki Ryoichi of House Shiozaki

The reply comes tied in twine, dyed a simple light brown color similar to the kind often used in the Lion heraldry. Inside is a pressed and dried daffodil, accompanied by neat writing in the letter.

To the most honorable Lord Yasuki Ryoichi of House Shiozaki,

Your forwardness was most unexpected but a welcome surprise, to learn that my humble name has traveled so far as to reach the esteemed samurai of the Crab that defend our noble Empire in the south. Your lands must be the home to very lovely trees, to produce such a beautiful hue on the leaf you so kindly sent to me.

It will be my pleasure to welcome you to Kyuden Ikoma this winter and greet you in person. Please take care to know that these lands might be colder than you are perhaps accustomed to, and I encourage you to dress warmly and bring shoes that will keep your feet dry if you like to venture outdoors for hunting or the like.

May the ancestors give you safe travels and blessed days,
Kitsu Sayomi of House Tatsukawa.